Aylward wants update on Mental Health and Addictions Strategy

Summerside
–
Stratford-Kinlock MLA and Opposition Health Critic James Aylward wants an update
from the MacLauchlan government on the province’s Mental Health and Addictions
Strategy.

“Mental
health and addictions issues can rip families and communities apart. It’s a
major public health issue. It can also lead to big costs in the health care and
justice sectors along with economic impacts. I’d like to see an update on the
strategy to make sure it’s flexible enough to adapt to rising challenges like
the growing presence of methamphetamine and fentanyl on the Island. Especially
in light of rumblings in the community about budget cuts and restructuring in
the Chief Mental Health and Addictions Office,” said
Aylward.

The Mental Health and
Addictions Strategy was first released in 2013 and since then progress on its
recommendations has been sluggish. Legislative committee meetings in the spring
highlighted gaps in data and information from the Chief Mental Health and
Addictions Office about the impact of the Strategy and improved access to
services for islanders. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have increasingly
expressed concerns about the growing use and availability of street drugs like
methamphetamine in Island communities.

“Addictions
affect too many people in our community. It affects people of all ages and from
all walks of life. We have to have the proper supports in place to help deal
with addiction struggles and strengthen our community here in Summerside,” said
Summerside-Wilmot PC candidate Brian Ramsay.